Who We Are
SMEX is a registered Lebanese NGO that works to advance self-regulating information societies in the Arab-Speaking region
Our vision is for everyone in Lebanon and across the Arab region to be able to access the internet, mobile services, and other networked spaces in order to communicate and express themselves safely and without fear of censorship, surveillance, or repercussion.
Our mission is to advance digital rights in Lebanon and the Arab region through research, campaigns, and advocacy that encourages users to engage critically with digital technologies, media, and networks.
We believe in the transformative power of access to information and self-expression, both online and offline. We assert that these rights are essential to peaceful, dynamic, and prosperous societies.
Our Story
We at SMEX champion the notion that the internet is a public space made for all, which is why we’ve been committed to keeping the internet accessible, free and open. Over the last ten years we’ve pushed policymakers to improve their policies, circulated valuable information through blog posts and trainings, hosted conferences, conducted thorough investigations and staunchly advocated for free, fair and safe access to digital resources.
Our Impact
Our innovative initiatives have had substantial and measurable effects on public discourse around the Arab world. Not only have our research and campaigns shed light on some of the most pressing issues of our digital lives, they’ve also been covered by some of the region’s largest media outlets. SMEX’s influence is ever-growing as we branch out and create new networks designed to defend, secure and expand digital rights.
This page is available in a different language العربية (Arabic) هذه الصفحة متوفرة بلغة مختلفة